Loot: An epic historical novel of plundered treasure and lasting love

Loot is a novel that follows the journey of Abbas, a young woodcarver apprentice taken to Tipu Sultan's palace in Mysore. When British soldiers attack and loot the palace, Abbas's prized tiger is shipped off to England. He must follow in order to carve out his place in the world, encountering a hero's quest, a love story, and the bloody legacy of colonialism. The novel is praised for its transporting prose, wit, and charm, and for its exploration of empire, colonialism, and romance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

From the very first page, Loot captivated me with its intricate plot, powerful emotions, and captivating characters. Maggie OFarrell has crafted an epic tale that spans continents, explores the complexities of empire, and delves into the depths of human passion and ambition.

Meet Abbas, a young woodcarver and toy maker with a dream to make his mark on the world. At the age of seventeen, Abbas is taken to Tipu Sultan's magnificent palace in Mysore, where he is apprenticed to the skilled clockmaker, Monsieur Du Leze. His task is to create a magnificent musical tiger, a masterpiece that will delight Tipu's sons.

In Monsieur Du Leze, Abbas finds an unexpected friend and mentor who encourages his talent and thirst for knowledge. Through this friendship, Abbas also meets Jehanne, a mysterious and intriguing woman with her own set of questions and ambitions.

However, their lives are turned upside down when British soldiers invade Mysore and loot the palace. Abbas's prized tiger, a symbol of his craftsmanship and creativity, is taken away and shipped to a country estate in England. Determined to carve out his place in the world, Abbas embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim his tiger and find his way back home.

Loot is a thrilling and immersive hero's quest that spans continents and explores the bloody legacy of colonialism. Through its transporting prose and witty dialogue, the novel asks profound questions about history, identity, and the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the world.

This cinematic novel of empire, colonialism, and romance weaves together a complex tapestry of characters and events, creating a rich and immersive experience for the reader. It explores the themes of belonging, identity, and the pursuit of artistic excellence, and offers a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of human relationships and the forces that shape our lives.

Loot is a dazzling achievement from a writer at the height of her powers. It is a clever and absorbing novel that delves into the complexities of empire and belonging, offering a fresh perspective on historical events and the human condition. With its vivid descriptions, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, Loot is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, adventure, and the power of storytelling.

Weight: 506g
Dimension: 241 x 162 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787304154